Thoughts of the Day - You are missed - 5/30/10

(Note -- sorry for the delay)

Today was a sad day for me, my buddy Elvis passed.  The image is one I made of him last year at Cranberry River.  Elvie came to be one of my pets during my first marriage and remained with me after the divorce.  He and his daughter Pooh ended up with my parents when all was said and done.  Elvie was a good and loyal puppy.  He passed away Sunday morning, as best I can figuer he was 12+ years old.  He lived a long full life and is missed by all of us. 

My folks buried him next to his daughter Pooh who passed away last year.  They were both such great and loving animals.  I am glad my folks were there to take care of them and to love them.  We miss you both.

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Fall 2010 Wildlife Instructional Photography Workshop

http://www.wildlifephotoacademy.com/2009/01/23/fall-wildlife-2010/

Fall 2010 Wildlife Instructional Photography Workshop

Triple D Game Farm, Kalispell, Montana

Presented by Paul Burwell Photography

Download the workshop PDF here

Cougar walking across the top of a ledge - CA

Cougar walking across the top of a ledge - CA

October 8th – 11th, 2010

Join Outdoor Photography Canada Magazine contributing editor, Paul Burwell, for a full-featured photography workshop at the Triple D Game Farm in Kalispell, Montana. This workshop will help you create stunning images of wildlife models at the Triple D Game Farm. The cooler temperatures of fall signal the animals that it is time to start building those fur coats for the coming winter. In 3 days you can amass a tremendous portfolio of animal photographs while learning the tips, tricks and techniques that will help

you create truly captivating images.

Fall wildlife models can include: bobcat, bear, coyote, wolf, lynx, mountain lion, snow-leopard, porcupine, raccoon, skunk, otter and fox.

This workshop includes:

* The opportunity to photograph extremely healthy and happy wildlife surrogates in natural surroundings at the Triple D Game Farm in Kalispell, Montana

o A minimum of 8 sessions photographing the animals over 3 days

o The benefit of Paul’s years of experience photographing at Triple D and scouting the locations

o You will be safely closer to animals like Cougars, Lynx and Snow Leopards than you ever imagined possible

* A copy of Paul’s book, Triple D Photography Tips, Tricks and Techniques

* Small group size to a maximum of 10 participants allows for maximum flexibility

* The opportunity to bring at least 10 images with you for critiquing

* A CD to take home containing an electronic version of the workshop material

* Paul’s undivided attention during the photo sessions to help you get the most out of your investment

o Paul has an extensive history of working with and educating adults from his prior experience as the President of an Internet firm

* The opportunity to learn techniques for preparing images with Photoshop, developing a managed workflow and archival strategies

* Professionally designed, printed and bound coffee-table book of the group’s achievements during the workshop

o Participants have an opportunity to submit images they’ve made during the workshop for inclusion in the book.

o One copy of the book will be distributed to each participant

* The option to submit up to 10 photographs from this workshop for a detailed written critique of each submitted photograph

Badger brandishing a claw outside of den - CA

Badger brandishing a claw outside of den - CA

Notes from the Instructor…

My Triple D workshops are limited to 8 participants. This small group size allows for maximum flexibility in obtaining all types of shots including portraits, behavior, close-ups and special requests where possible. You’ll also have the flexibility to easily move to different positions to get the shots you are looking for. You will be able to benefit from my years of experience photographing at Triple D and scouting the various shooting locations. This will help make sure you go home with the best photos possible.

I was the President of an Internet services company for over 10 years where I developed an extensive history of working with and educating adults. I am currently a contributing editor for Outdoor Photography Canada magazine and a professional nature photographer. Some individuals seem to run workshops in order to subsidize their own photography shoots. But, unlike those workshop leaders, I am exclusively there to help you get the best shots. You won’t need to worry about interrupting my photography to ask a question or get advice. This workshop is more than just a series of photo sessions with the wildlife models. It is a full featured workshop offering a complete educational experience.

The staff members at Triple D are simply tremendous and they’ll work with us to help get you a tremendous series of shots. Jay and Kim Deist, the owners of the Triple D, are tremendously generous hosts who provide a terrific service to photographers.

Each participant will receive a copy of my book, Triple D Photography Tips, Tricks and Techniques. Familiarizing yourself with the book in advance of your trip to the Triple D is an excellent way of preparing for your visit. The Triple D Photography Tips, Tricks and Techniques book forms the basis for the educational portion of the workshop.

If you are wondering where to stay in Kalispell, options range from the very affordable Triple D Guest Cabin to one of the hotels that offer discounts for Triple D guests. Please contact me for more information.

Itinerary

* October 7th Evening: Orientation meeting at the Triple D offices.

* October 8th – 10th Mornings: The morning of each day will feature photography sessions with the wildlife models at various shooting locations

* October 8th – 10th Afternoons: This time will be available for instruction as well as free time to work on images.

* October 11th Morning: Weather day. This day is reserved to make up for inclement weather or to allow participants to add additional sessions

* October 11th – Noon: Workshop comes to an end

Workshop Costs

* $1395 US Dollars

o $200 US Dollars deposit required upon reservation

o Remainder of $1195 US dollars due by August 7, 2010

o Time and weather permitting, additional sessions may be added for $150 per session

o Accompanying non-photographer $50 per day

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Photoshop for Teens (ages 13-18)

http://www.ssreg.com/juliadean/classes/classes.asp?courseid=9753&catid=2261

Photoshop for Teens (ages 13-18)

Students in this course will have the opportunity to explore the ins-and-outs of Adobe Photoshop. This class will focus on assisting students in expressing the images they see in their minds as actual photographs and vehicles for telling a story. Students will work collaboratively and individually on projects that will explore the unlimited creative potential of Photoshop. Skills such as basic photo
editing, retouching of portraits, changing images from color to black-and-white, special effects and compositing (combining more than one image seamlessly) will be explored. The course will also teach students how to further refine their work preparing it for print or a presentation.

Students are required to bring their own laptop loaded with at least Photoshop CS2, preferably CS3 or CS4, and a mouse or graphics tablet. If necessary, a free 30-day trial version of Photoshop can be installed by visiting www.adobe.com/downloads.

Enrollment limit: 12 students

5 Session(s)
Mon, Tues, Wed, Thurs, Fri 10am-12:30pm, August 9 - August 13

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The Everyday Photographer - Depth of Field

How much of your image is in focus?

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Thoughts of the Day - 5/28/10 - The Journey

I read Moose's post today with delight, I have to admit I am envious of the opportunity that he has had to do Air to Air and wildlife photography.  Let me start this by reminding, or informing, my readers that I am an aviator and a nature lover through and through.  Before I moved into the paths I am on now I considered a career in aviation long and hard.  It just never materialized, and even when I watched the video of Moose flying in the old warbird I felt a smile creep on my face.  I love the feeling of being aloft, of defying gravity.

The image that Moose has posted are breath taking, but then again I expect no less from Moose, he is undoubtedly one of my photography heroes.  I am glad he is out there making images and sharing his knowledge.  Hidden in his words was a thought that my little brain grabbed on to and instantly realized should be a major talking point of anyone learning or aspiring to learn photography.  That little nugget was this:

"..there’s the click that says, “I was here” but that’s not the photograph saying, “You should be here” which is what we should be striving for." - Moose Peterson in a recent blog post.

The point I took from his post was just that and in many of the images of Moose's that I review I have that feeling.  I wish I had been there.  I'm glad that Moose shares and if I ever get to meet him in person I will tell him thank-you and keep on sharing.

To my photographically inclined readers I challenge you to go out there and make the image that says "You should be here."  I know I will put that thought into the framing of my next image.  I know that it will begin to resonate with-in what I want to do in this crazy photographic ride I am on.

Keep you shutter's clickin'!

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Night Photography for Teens (ages 13-18)

http://www.ssreg.com/juliadean/classes/classes.asp?courseid=13092&catid=2261

Night Photography for Teens (ages 13-18)

Take your photography skills to an entirely new and challenging level by changing the current world into something magical and mysterious. Explore various focal points to learn about composition and exposure accuracy in order to create dazzling night images. Experience ample opportunity to shoot at sunset and at dark using essential accessories like selected filters and cable releases. There will be creative exercises in the field addressing over-all exposures in shadows, highlights and white balance control. Understand the use of a tripod, while shooting along the tranquil waterfront of the Marina, and capture beautiful, twilight motion blur pictures.

The course will encompass critique sessions, discussions on vivid, black and white imagery while participating in traveling shooting adventures. Develop friendships with other night photography enthusiasts as you venture out during the evening to paint with colorful glowing lights in an endless and memorable setting of our coastal community. This workshop will introduce technical and composition techniques for using your camera in low-light conditions.

Students are required to bring a tripod, cable release and select filters. To determine the appropriate filter for your camera and where to purchase it, please email workshops@juliadean.com. In the subject line, please write “Filter Question: Night Photography for Teens.”

Enrollment limit: 15 students

5 Session(s)
Mon, Tues, Wed, Thurs, Fri 7-10pm, August 16 - August 20

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Thoughts of the Day - 5/27/10 - Teaching Photography

The other night at Matthew's Cub Pack meeting the members of the Boy Scout Troop, Troop 99, asked me to be their Merit Badge Counselor for the Photography merit badge.  I had previously discussed this with the Scoutmaster and we had decided that when the boys were ready they had only to ask.  That evening I pulled up the requirements for the badge and began to review what I had to cover with them.

I quickly realized that the information was very similar to the items I have been discussion on "The Everyday Photographer" podcast.  I decided to create a powerpoint, more for myself than the boys.  I will share that with you once I complete it.  I also instantly realized that this needs to be a hands on type of course and it also needs to have a discovery aspect to it.  To make the long story short I'm now writing a short photography course that I will deliver to the members of the troop.  Once they have gone through it I may use a modified version to conduct as a community course on photography.  I will share some of the information and outlines from the class once I complete it all. 

It is exciting to look at it from the perspective of a beginner and remembering how I struggled with certain topics that I now just take for granted.  I wonder how many folks in the community would respond to a basic photography class?

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The Special Project for Teens (ages 13-18)

http://www.ssreg.com/juliadean/classes/classes.asp?courseid=9751&catid=2261

The Special Project for Teens (ages 13-18)

Color, texture, shadows. You name it and it can serve as a photographer’s subject. In this fun and collaborative class, students will learn the art of visual storytelling and the importance of the editing process. We’ll emphasize the need to create a deep, personal connection to our projects and learn the skills necessary to produce images that are stylistically and thematically unified. Elements of composition will be highlighted to emphasize each photographer’s personal vision and style. We’ll also explore documentary versus more personal and artistic projects, as well as how to convey a point of view. In effort to build the strongest body of photographs possible, the class will work together in a supportive and constructive environment, editing and critiquing each other’s work on a daily basis. The goal is for each student to feel a sense of pride and success for completing a cohesive, meaningful body of work.

Enrollment Limit: 15 students

5 Session(s)
Mon, Tues, Wed, Thurs, Fri 10am-1pm, August 2 - August 6

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Travel, Discover and Learn: Developing Skills in Portrait, Architecture, and Landscape Photography for Teens (ages 13-18)

http://www.ssreg.com/juliadean/classes/classes.asp?courseid=9750&catid=2261

Travel, Discover and Learn: Developing Skills in Portrait, Architecture, and Landscape Photography for Teens (ages 13-18)

Participate in a journey of exploration and enjoy opportunities to photograph the City of Angels. This experience invites participants to engage in the wonder of learning the different approaches to composition, lighting and techniques for successful portrait, architecture and landscape photography. The class is divided into traveling shooting adventures, like visiting a well known architectural site, and portrait photography lectures addressing natural lighting and establishing emotional impact techniques. There will also be critiques and basic Photoshop discussions. Photographers are encouraged to develop stylistic skills to interpret themes and practice photo essay methods to illustrate clever and exclusive images. In this enthusiastic environment, the course’s framework will be strengthened through interesting hands-on assignments and shooting at different location sites. Classical composition elements will be emphasized to complement each student’s vision. Develop confidence and immerse yourself in a remarkable and unforgettable week while perfecting artistic skills to continue your journey as a talented photographer.

Enrollment Limit: 15 students

5 Session(s)
Mon, Tues, Wed, Thurs, Fri 10am-1pm, July 26 - July 30

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Making Your Own Photo Book for Teens (ages 13-18)

http://www.ssreg.com/juliadean/classes/classes.asp?courseid=13052&catid=2261

Making Your Own Photo Book for Teens (ages 13-18)

Workshop fee includes: tuition + book publishing fee

If you have a body of work, whether it be a friend’s birthday party, a high school event, a portfolio, or vacation pictures, you can now put this work together by publishing your own book at a very reasonable price. You can make a small 5” x 5 “ soft cover book or large 12” x 12” table top hard back books, and many sizes in between. There are several self-publishing companies on the market these days, but none come with as much personal attention as you’ll get from our educational partner, A&I Photographic & Digital Services in Los Angeles.

In this five-day workshop, students should arrive with the free program already downloaded on a personal laptop, acquired by visiting JDPW Book Creator at www.jdpwbooks.com. The week is divided among learning the program itself, learning how to size photos properly to get the best quality book, the importance of editing, how to sequence, and how to create good page design. Between learning these techniques and skills, each participant will work on his or her book, with group critiques and Julia’s constant individual help. This is a hands-on workshop. At the end of the week, all participants will be ready to send their book to A&I for printing.

Students are required to bring their own laptop loaded with at least Photoshop CS2, preferably CS3 or CS4, and a mouse or graphics tablet. If necessary, a free 30-day trial version of Photoshop can be installed by visiting www.adobe.com/downloads. A working knowledge of Photoshop is NOT required. Please bring now fewer than 15 photographs to the workshop.

Enrollment limit: 12 students

5 Session(s)
Mon, Tues, Wed, Thurs, Fri 10am-1pm, August 16 - August 20

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Thoughts of the Day - 5/25/10 - Sharp!

One of the thins I struggle with is making sure my image is in focus.  I'm a poor photographer and as a result i often do not get to purchase the equipment I would truly like to have.  However in the last few years as my understanding has grown I have began a process of replacing my lens with ones that can get down to what I need.  One of the things that you have to have in the image is focus and that focus needs to be crisp and sharp.

When I first started in photography I only vaguely understood what sharp meant and over time I have grown to respect it and understand it.  The image I posted on Sunday was derived from this image to the left.  If you want to see a much larger version go here, to my lightbox of this image.  Notice that the image of the face is in clear focus, despite the movement.  Now unfortunately though I would consider this image to be in focus I would not consider it to be sharp. 

So what does sharp mean, well for that you need the explanation of a much better photographer than myself therefore I point you to a recent post by Moose Peterson.  In the post Moose is discussing what he considers to be sharp in the article and then of course relaying why it is so hard to illustrate this on the web.  In his discussion he points you to a comparision image he created to help illustrate his point.  Take a look at Moose's degrees of sharpness here.

I'm not going to comment further on this as I think Moose really said it all in his post.

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Digital Photography for Teens (ages 13-15)

http://www.ssreg.com/juliadean/classes/classes.asp?courseid=13051&catid=2261

Digital Photography for Teens (ages 13-15)

Participate in the opportunity to connect to the world of photography. In this course, students will learn and explore the fundamentals of a Single Lens Reflex (SLR) digital camera. Instructor Paola Davila will highlight and explain technical skills including navigating camera controls menus on the LCD monitor, formatting files and exposure setting. Students will learn to identify traditional compositional elements in order to enhance their individual vision. This unique photography curriculum is intra-disciplinary with references to the masters of photography and their historical techniques. The art of photography will be introduced with basic
skills of taking a good picture. Students will participate in hands-on tutorials reflecting lecture themes, utilizing the community of Venice Beach as their setting.

This course is a basic overview providing technical information, inspiration and insight to becoming digital photographers of tomorrow. Students uncertain regarding their type of camera suitable for this class should contact the Julia Dean Photo Workshops at 310-392-0909.

Enrollment Limit: 15 students

5 Session(s)
Mon, Tues, Wed, Thurs, Fri 10am-1pm, July 12 - July 16

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Thoughts of the Day - 5/24/10 - Befuddled

Sorry folks I am befuddled today, I have lots of thoughts but none of them are particularly photo related.  Though they all swirl around the outskirts of photography ands my own photography they stubbornly refuse to come into any kind of focus.  The best I can manage is a fuzzy blob on the image plane and that is not worth even clicking the shutters for.

I do have to note that the 40D is back from the shop and I am glad to have it back in hand.  I took it out this weekend to the soccer field and made a few images.  I also played with a toy car and a new lighting technique, check out my posts from over the weekend to see those.  For now though I am just going to click the publish button and let my mind whirl around.

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Action Image - Soccer

The moment the shutter closed I knew this was going to be a good image.  The bend of the legs the arms, the action.  It all screamed at me.  What took my breath away was the detail and focus I had captured.  This version has been processed with a few filters and among them was a soft focus, I wanted to give the image a dream like quality.

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Lake Powell Houseboat Adventure

http://www.moabphotoworkshops.com/#goto=workshop-calendar

Lake Powell Houseboat Adventure

October 2010

Tuition: TBD - We anticipate rates that will vary based upon your choice of houseboat accommodations, i.e. stateroom vs. camping atop the deck

Lake Powell offers over 2,000 miles of rugged and beautiful shoreline - more than the entire western coast of the United States. We'll explore hidden canyons via kayak, motorboat and on foot while discovering massive arches, ancient ruins and glorious autumn cottonwoods on daily excursions from our basecamp aboard a luxury houseboat.

Workshop participants will receive hands-on instruction in the field and in short lecture sessions aboard our floating classroom. Portfolio reviews and daily image critiques will provide you with valuable, immediate feedback on your images. Each day you will find your confidence growing as you produce stunning images of this amazing landscape!

This is an all-inclusive workshop. Your tuition will cover houseboat, powerboat and kayak rental, one night lodging in Page, Arizona and transportation once you arrive in Page. All permits, entry fees, guide fees and food are included.

This exciting workshop is open to photographers of all levels and is limited to 8 participants. Photographers using film cameras are welcome but will not benefit from daily image critiques.

Tuition rates have not been set, though we anticipate they will range from approximately $2,500 to $4,000.

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Thoughts of the Day - 5/23/10 - Lighting the World

The other day I was pondering what the next avenue of photographic exploration should take.  I decided I want to work on portrait work, something I need to understand better and more importantly in lighting for portraits.  As I was thinking on this I wondered through the idea of light painting.  This is something I have never done, I have read on the technique but never tried it myself.

I decided to look up some tutorials on YouTube and the web.  In my exploration I turned up the work of Eric William Curry.  It was the video below that just grabbed my attention:


After I watched a few of his videos I jumped over to his website and took a look at some of his other work.  I was amazed by the work he had created.  On Friday evening I decided to try my hand at this.  I grabbed my tripod, camera, 50mm lens and a MagLight.  I threw a black cover over the small table in the kitchen, placed one of Matthew's 1/10 cars on the stage and framed up the camera.  My first shot was just to get a feel for the framing of the image:

It was not a big subject but it would provide me a chance to experiment with this technique.  After a short time I had made a number of exposures of the image.  Some were burnt but I was starting to get the feel for the method.  I then cleared all the work and started carefully lighting the image.  My results was no where near as spectacular as Mr. Curry's but I was happy none the less.

I was inspired enough by the image above and Mr. Curry's work to plan a larger project in the near future.  I am thinking of doing my own 2005 mustang here in the year, just the car no background and no story as Mr. Curry does, just the lighting technique.  I am looking forward to it, I will keep everyone posted on the project as it evolves.

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Thoughts of the Day - 5/21/10 - Motivation

Motivation is one of the toughest things for us to understand.  Have you evere wondered why a guy who is gainfully employed at a large organization spends his spare time making music or taking photos.  Why do we spend our off time in pursuit of other things?  It's our down time, isn't that supposed to be when we are at rest getting fuled up for the next day at the organization? 

Take a good friend of mine, Larry.  Larry spends his day handling researcha nd other elated issues in education.  However in his down time he does the following:  leads a choir, sings in a christian music group, attends his grand-kids soccer matches, teaches guitar classes, and runs a technology business that maintains a network for local medical doctors.  Now add in the fact that he has helped countless folks obtain their Doctoral degree and that his wife was recently diagnosed with cancer.  He is amazing, but with all the work he does at his 40+ hour a week day job why does Larry do all the other stuff.  Simple its about motivation and purpose, he does what he does because he wants to, because it gives him purpose.  Listen to this 10min video I found on Responsible Marketing:



Over the last few months I have read a lot about motivation, that does nto qualify me as an expert but some of my personal experiences does give me an insight.  If you want to change something then one of the steps is to motivate people to make that change.  People will not change just because you want them to, they will only change if they want to.  Don't believe me then think on this, do you know a smoker?  Most likely you do.  How many smokers can just put down the lighter and tobacco and walk away?   Not many but ever now and then you meet a former smoker who did just that.  They took a smoke, said this is the last one and never looked back.  Now how many former smokers do you know.  I bet if you ask one of them they will tell you that it was hard but they had to do it for (insert their reason here). 

They had purpose and not one that anyone could have given them one that they found themselves.  You want to get something done then find a purpose to do it and you will get it done.  Keep your shutters clickin'!

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The Everyday Photographer - Layering your images

For greater visual appeal layer your images.

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Check out The Everyday Photographer Flickr Group.

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Thouhgts of the Day - 5/20/10 - Lost in Data

Sorry about my thoughts yesterday folks, I was lost in a data bank.  I have been working on a project for the last month at work, it is nearly completed.  Yesterday I was able to get back to it for the first time in four days and it wiped me out.  I completely forgot to put together a post about what was going on with me and my thoughts on photography.  You are all probably thinking, great for us less of your ramblings!


Never fear though I am here to ramble today!  Actually my thoughts are just as random as these posts and they often take off in totally unexpected directions.  Which can be quite fun, so my advice is hang-on for those hard lefts because as time goes by I am likely to have them.  I noticed this morning that the last two pod casts of "The Everyday Photographer" has not showed up online through iTunes yet.  I went and checked the feed and it is working just great, however I belive I have isolated the issue.  for some reason I did not save those two episodes in MP4 format.  I am going to redo episode 3 tonight and hopefully get it posted up as a re-post tomorrow morning.  I will also adjust my entire process to ensure that the MP4 format is used from this point forward.  I have also been working on a logo for the cast and have a few to consider now.  One I am particularly fond of.  I should have that nailed down soon and once I do you will start seeing that on the screen when the cast is running.

Ok what else do I have on this Thursday...oh yeah my 40D is back.  I had sent it off for repairs a few weeks back and I will be picking it up today!  I am so stoked to get it back, even though I now want to updarage to the 7D badly I am excited to get my baby back in my hands.  My Rebel XT makes a great back-up camera but the controls have an awkward layout.  I have rally missed the thumb wheel on the back.

BTW if you need some good sound training on how to use your camera or about photography in general you need to check out Kelby Training.  I have a monthly subscription to their service and find myself loving their classes.  I have not used them in a bit as nothing new had popped up lately.  The other day I decided it was time to learn more about my digital darkroom choices so I have started taking their Lightroom classes.  I am hoping to find better ways to do the things I am already doing.

That's enough ramblings for now...keep your shutters clickin'!

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Thoughts of the Day - 5/18/10 - Don't get stuck in the details

As promised here are two of my favorite images from our impromptu picnic and photo shoot.  The one the the left is Lex, she was a trooper that day.  She helped pack the picnic, she even carried it to the picnic area and helped serve.  I love how the blue in her shirt bring shirt the blue in her eyes.

Technically speaking the image was shot with my old Rebel XT using a Tamaron 18-200 lens.  This is my beater set-up.  I had my other stuff with me but decided that working the light was more important than having fast glass on the body.    This image uses a shutter speed of 1/15 with an ISO of 100 an an aperture of f4.5.  The lens was zoomed at about 54mm which means with the adjusted factor due to the 1.6 crop on the camera body it was more like an 86mm.  The flash, if I remember correctly, was set at 1/32 or 1/64 power.

Now by working the light I mean off camera flash.  In this particular shot Matthew is camera left holding my 480EX.  The flash has a Cactus remote hung on it and I have the trigger on the camera.  It's not a high tech set-up.  If it was to much light I would tell Matthew or Lex, which ever one had the flash in hand, to turn it up or down as needed.

The image of Matthew was shot under the shade of a tree as you can tell.  Using the same lens and flash set up as before.  This time though I used a higher ISO, 200, and the lens was zoomed out to 100mm (adjusted to the 1.6 crop that would be 160mm).  I also used f5.6.  Lex was holding the flash at camera left and I think I had the power set at 1/4 on the 480.  I honestly can't remember now.

Now did you get all of that, did you carefully writing down the ISO and the f stops and aperture settings.  Are you looking up cactus remote or the 480EX.  I hope not!  Why, simple you will never encounter the same light or have the same set of obstacles that I ran into that day.  There is a reason I never mention any of that stuff when I post images.  Early on I learned that the settings on the camera are a relationship to the conditions I have that day and the vision I have in my head.  You could dial your camera into the same settings nad make a great image, or it could be awful.  It all depends on the situation and the light and a million other little niggling details.  Don't get stuck on the details, just make the image. 

Now I could probably post these to a forum and get all kinds of good and bad feedback.  I see obvious problems with the images myself but I am not going to point them out to you.  I am going to remind you that part of the point of that days shoot was to scout locations, another part of the day was to practice off camera flash.  I learned a lot out there shooting.  I am going to make alterations to the way I set my gear up, I am going to add a diffuser and get a reflector to take with me next time.  Minor little things but important things.  You have to experiment and learn, don't get caught up in all the little details do get caught up in what you made and what needs to be changed to make it better.

Keep your shutters clickin'!

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Where the Shutter Clicks - June Update

Wow oh wow...May is nearly gone. The Everyday Photographer is up and running, the new gym is up and running. I'm having fun and I hope you are too. Here is what is happening in June and July. I am sure there are more workshops out there than these. I don't get any kickback from any of these for promotion nor do i expect any. I simply ran across them and decided to share them with you good folks. You can find all of the ones I have found so far. The are listed on the workshop calendar of this blog, there is a button that lets you navigate to it on the top of the page. But just in case you don't see that or you are using a reader here is a direct link. http://pointclickshoot.blogspot.com/p/workshop-calendar.html.  If you know of a workshop you would like to have added just send me mail or hit the comments and I will add it to the calendar.


June

Comoro Islands Extension - Tue, June 1 – Fri, June 4
Boudoir Divas Workshop - Tue, June 1 – Thu, June 3
Basic Photography III: Advanced Digital - Tue, June 1
Uganda Mountain Gorilla Extension - Thu, June 3 – Tue, June 8
Spain's Andalucia & the Alhambra Photo Workshop - Fri, June 4 – Thu, June 10
Nevada Wier - Creativity in Travel Photography - Fri, June 4 – Sun, June 6
Tangier Island off the Eastern Shore, Virginia - Fri, June 4 – Sun, June 6
Wild Nature Tours - Spring Workshop - Sat, June 5 – Sun, June 13
Yellowstone & Grand Tetons in Spring - Sat, June 5 – Sun, June 13
Yellowstone Spring Wolf and Bear Adventure - Sat, June 5 – Wed, June 9
Coastal Brown Bears of Alaska - Sun, June 6 – Sat, June 12
Montana Rocky Mountain Front Photo Workshop - Sun, June 6 – Sat, June 12
Eddie Soloway - Eyes Wide Open - Mon, June 7 – Fri, July 9
East Africa Photo Safari - Tue, June 8 – Sat, June 19
Tanzania Photographic Safari - Tue, June 8 – Sat, June 19
Basic Photography III: Advanced Digital - Tue, June 8
Wildlife Photographer's Base Camp - Wed, June 9 – Sun, June 13
Ireland: Capturing the Essence of Western Ireland - Thu, June 10 – Sun, June 20
Wildflowers & Reflections in the Tetons - Thu, June 10 – Sun, June 13
Ladakh: The Last True Remaining Tibet - Fri, June 11 – Sat, June 26
Making Your Own Photo Book - Sat, June 12 – Sun, June 13
French Wine Country Photo Workshop - Sun, June 13 – Sat, June 19
Basic Photography III: Advanced Digital - Tue, June 15
Mastering Adobe Lightroom - Tue, June 15, 7pm – 9pm
Washington's Palouse Region - Wed, June 16 – Sun, June 20
Yellowstone Spring Wolf and Bear Adventure - Thu, June 17 – Mon, June 21
Four Evenings with Fine Art Photographers - Thu, June 17
Conservation in Focus: A Photographic Workshop in Southeast Alaska - Fri, June 18 – Sun, June 27
Tony Corbell - The Power of Light - Fri, June 18 – Sun, June 20
Spring 2010 Wildlife Instructional Photography Workshop - Sat, June 19 – Tue, June 22
Ireland: The Magic of Western Ireland with Corey Hilz - Sun, June 20 – Wed, June 30
Professional Photography - Sun, June 20 – Sat, June 26
Storm Chasing - Sun, June 20 – Sat, June 26
Basic Photography III: Advanced Digital - Tue, June 22
Mastering the Photographic Assignment - Fri, June 25 – Sat, July 3
Sicily, Crossroads of the Med Photo Workshop - Fri, June 25 – Thu, July 1
Loons and Other Delights 2010 Instructional Photography Workshop - Fri, June 25 – Tue, June 29
The Crash Studio & Location Lighting Class - Sat, June 26 – Sun, June 27
Crafting the Fine Landscape Photograph - Sun, June 27 – Sat, July 3
OneLight Workshop v. 3.0 - Mon, June 28
Loons and Other Delights 2010 Instructional Photography Workshop - Wed, June 30 – Sun, July 4
OneLight Workshop v. 3.0 - Wed, June 30

July

Comoro Islands Extension  Tue, June 1 – Fri, June 4
Basic Photography III: Advanced Digital   Tue, June 1
Boudoir Divas Workshop  Tue, June 1 – Thu, June 3
Uganda Mountain Gorilla Extension  Thu, June 3 – Tue, June 8
Spain's Andalucia & the Alhambra Photo Workshop  Fri, June 4 – Thu, June 10
Nevada Wier - Creativity in Travel Photography   Fri, June 4 – Sun, June 6
Tangier Island off the Eastern Shore, Virginia   Fri, June 4 – Sun, June 6
Wild Nature Tours - Spring Workshop  Sat, June 5 – Sun, June 13
Yellowstone & Grand Tetons in Spring  Sat, June 5 – Sun, June 13
Yellowstone Spring Wolf and Bear Adventure  Sat, June 5 – Wed, June 9
Coastal Brown Bears of Alaska  Sun, June 6 – Sat, June 12
Montana Rocky Mountain Front Photo Workshop  Sun, June 6 – Sat, June 12
Eddie Soloway - Eyes Wide Open  Mon, June 7 – Fri, July 9
Stock Photography: Six-Week  Mon, June 7
East Africa Photo Safari  Tue, June 8 – Sat, June 19
Tanzania Photographic Safari  Tue, June 8 – Sat, June 19
Basic Photography III: Advanced Digital  Tue, June 8
Wildlife Photographer's Base Camp  Wed, June 9 – Sun, June 13
Ireland: Capturing the Essence of Western Ireland  Thu, June 10 – Sun, June 20
Wildflowers & Reflections in the Tetons  Thu, June 10 – Sun, June 13
Ladakh: The Last True Remaining Tibet  Fri, June 11 – Sat, June 26
Making Your Own Photo Book  Sat, June 12 – Sun, June 13
French Wine Country Photo Workshop  Sun, June 13 – Sat, June 19
Machu Picchu  Tue, June 15 – Thu, June 24
Washington's Palouse Regio  Wed, June 16 – Sun, June 20
Yellowstone Spring Wolf and Bear Adventure  Thu, June 17 – Mon, June 21
Four Evenings with Fine Art Photographers  Thu, June 17
Conservation in Focus: A Photographic Workshop in Southeast Alaska  Fri, June 18 – Sun, June 27
Tony Corbell - The Power of Light  Fri, June 18 – Sun, June 20
Spring 2010 Wildlife Instructional Photography Workshop  Sat, June 19 – Tue, June 22
Ireland: The Magic of Western Ireland with Corey Hilz  Sun, June 20 – Wed, June 30
Professional Photography  Sun, June 20 – Sat, June 26
Storm Chasing  Sun, June 20 – Sat, June 26
Ireland: The Magic of Western Ireland with Corey Hilz  Sun, June 20 – Wed, June 30
Professional Photography  Sun, June 20 – Sat, June 26
Sicily, Crossroads of the Med Photo Workshop  Fri, June 25 – Thu, July 1
Loons and Other Delights 2010 Instructional Photography Workshop  Fri, June 25 – Tue, June 29
Yellowstone and Tetons  Sat, June 26 – Fri, July 2
The Crash Studio & Location Lighting Class  Sat, June 26 – Sun, June 27
Crafting the Fine Landscape Photograph  Sun, June 27 – Sat, July 3
OneLight Workshop v. 3.0  Mon, June 28
Loons and Other Delights 2010 Instructional Photography Workshop  Wed, June 30 – Sun, July 4
OneLight Workshop v. 3.0  Wed, June 30

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Thoughts of the Day - 5/17/10 - Stretching out.

In the last few months I have been busy with a number of sideline projects.  "The Everyday Photographer", helping Famous Superstars and several monster projects at the day job to name just a few.  I like pushing my limits, I hate being stagnant.



This weekend I was supposed to join the "Brothers in the Cross" in Beckley for a sing, however other events transpired to keep me away from that event.  Instead I ended up outdoors.  It was a wonderful Sunday, the temperatures were right and the light though harsh due to the time of day was still nice.  Lex and I packed a lunch for the three of us and with Matthew in tow we headed up river to Hawks Nest State Park.  None of the images I made this weekend at Hawks Nest are ready for the blog yet.  I have only done basic post production work to them, color correction, and minor cropping.  I would like to get them finished up this afternoon sometime.  The last time I was at Hawks Nest I was shooting scenic images like this one.  I used a faux tilt shift technique on the image to give it the miniature feel.  You can see a short and to the pint post on this at Visualphotoguide.com.    Its not that hard to do and took me less than 4 min to create the one you see here.



What I hope to show you from this weekends images is examples of off camera flash and portrait work.  I've come to realize that I need to improve that area of my photography and in as much I need to shoot more images of that type.  So both the kids agreed to let me make images of them this weekend.  If we get any real good ones I will have them framed and put on the wall at the house.



What I am trying to tell you is that no mater where you go and what you do the moment you stop learning, the moment you stop stretching to learn something new then that is the moment that you die.  That is the moment that you as an artist, as a photographer, as a person or as a scholar have just died.  It will not be long before the world passes you by and people start to talk about you in terms of what you once did, not what you are doing now.  So keep you shutters clickin', keep those horizons expanding, and keep growing.  When those doubts surface, when you start thinking you want to slow down or you want off the crazy ride then keep the words of BB King in mind.  But rather than sharing them with you myself I will let him.  Listen to the chorus and follow the advice it gives!

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Arches, Canyonlands & Moab Photo Workshop

http://bcphotoadventures.com/ArchesPhotoWorkshop.php

Arches, Canyonlands & Moab Photo Workshop

September 22-26, 2010, Wednesday noon through Sunday afternoon at 2:00

$980 (discounts available)

Limit 12 with 2 instructors (maximum 6:1 student-to-instructor ratio)

photo adventure workshops digital photography Arches Canyonlands Moab southwest fall autumn Barefoot Contessa Photo Adventures © 2008 Zann and Pinkerton Photography for Barefoot Contessa Photo Adventures. All Rights Reserved. For usage and fees, contact us at 310 Lafayette Drive, Hillsborough, NC 27278. 919-643-3036 before 9 pm east coast USA.

Join our photography workshop in the magnificent Southwest. The southeastern part of Utah is a glorious place to photograph, and the Arches, Canyonlands, and Moab area is a prime location. With blazing red sandstone, fantastical arches, cool canyons, and clear streams and rivers, there is no shortage of photographic material.

© 2008 Zann and Pinkerton Photography. All Rights Reserved. Barefoot Contessa Photo Adventures workshops client comments

In addition to Arches and Canyonlands, we'll take you to some pretty special areas that we love and to which we have gained access. You'll be able to celebrate your passion for photography, hone your seeing and imaging skills, and learn about the magic of light to make wonderful photographs.

We'll be based in Moab where the stunning landscapes have made it perfect for the filming of numerous Westerns since the 1920s, evoking such names as John Ford, John Wayne, Maureen O'Hara, and Susan Sarandon and movie titles from "Stage Coach" to "Thelma & Louise." And for those who love geology, this area is a treasure trove, known for its rich variety of sandstones that take on the deep hues of sunrise and sunset.

photo adventure workshops digital photography Arches Canyonlands Moab southwest fall autumn Barefoot Contessa Photo Adventures © 2008 Zann and Pinkerton Photography for Barefoot Contessa Photo Adventures. All Rights Reserved. For usage and fees, contact us at 310 Lafayette Drive, Hillsborough, NC 27278. 919-643-3036 before 9 pm east coast USA.

Click here for flash photo gallery.

We start out with some technical information before heading out for our first afternoon of photography. Our workshops include the following:

* Maximum 6-to-1 ratio students to instructors

* Opening wine-and-pizza reception;

* Primer booklet to help you get started;

* Early-morning and late-afternoon shoots;

* Mid-day downloading of your images and processing with the latest version of Lightroom;

* Lots of individual instruction in both the field and classroom;

* Critiques, both individual and group;

* Discussions on various aspects of photography, including digital workflow;

* Final group critique and show on last day (what many feel is the highlight of the workshop experience); and

* Lots of fun and frivolity throughout!

If you have not already done so, be sure to check our FAQs for questions you may have as well as equipment and installed downloads you need to bring to the workshop including, if necessary, the free, 30-day, trial versions of Adobe products.

You will also receive written instructions on the ins and outs of successfully and easily turning your favorite digital images into beautiful prints straight out of the latest version of Lightroom using your own printer.

Cost: $980

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How to get a job for 6$

I found this in my reader on Friday and nearly fell over...

From Patrick Byers post:
 


You don’t need the biggest budget to succeed at marketing. The biggest budget doesn’t guarantee success.
No, you need the best ideas. The best ideas win.

What do you think? 

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Thoughts of the Day - 5/14/10 - Fear is the mind killer

“I live every day to its fullest extent and I don't sweat the small stuff.”

                                                      --Olivia Newton-John

I used to post a lot of quotes over on twitter but then I came to realize that I was not promoting what I thought or anything about myself.  So I stopped.  Simple as that, if you find you are doing something you don't like stop doing it.  Some things are harder to quit doing than others.  It's a fact don't sweat it just accept it and deal with it.  There is to many things ahead of us to worry about the things behind us.  It is said that the only time we truly have is today, yesterday is gone and tomorrow is but a dream.  I believe that but I am also of sound enough mind to realize that the actions of the past can and will influence the events of today and tomorrow is an ever changing possibility.

The question becomes what will you make of this day, will you waste it in the same old druge you have been doing your entire life or will you try something new.  Tim Ferriss challenges in his book to do one thing you fear to do everyday.  I agree with this philosophy too, but the problem is most folks can not tell you what they fear.  When I was younger I was afraid of snakes, and to this day they make my skin crawl.  I'm no longer afraid of them but I leave them alone and they agree to do the same to me.  If you are going to use "Fear Setting" then head the words of Yoda you must: "Named your fear must be, before banish it you can."

Fear not the world my friends, fear not your camera, just go make images and have fun.  The rest will sort itself out in time.  Remember those people that seem to be overnight successes have been at it for years. Go have fun and enjoy your weekend.  On other notes the latest episode of "The Everyday Photographer came out this morning, I hope folks are enjoying it.  I noted when I was in iTunes that the last episode was not there yet, I will look into that over the weekend.  

One last note, received word on my trusty 40D, it is repairable!  I should have it back in 2-3 weeks.  Until then I will be using my Rebel XT.  I will be in Dupont on Saturday morning and at the Famous Superstars saturday day.  On Sunday I will be in Beckley with "The Brothers in the Cross".  I may be at Famous Superstars on Sunday too, depends on what level "Noodle" is trying out for.

Keep your shutters clickin'

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Namibia Photographic Safari

http://www.andybiggs.com/content.php?page=2010-9-Namibia

Namibia Photographic Safari - September 2010

September 20-30, 2010

Safari Leader: John Paul Caponigro

Please see our Safaris and Workshops section for more workshop and safari dates.

Return to Digital Photo Safaris / Workshops

In September 2010 John Paul Caponigro will lead a private group of photographers into Namibia's untamed wilderness areas. The goal of this safari is to photograph the breathtaking desert landscapes of Namibia, and we’ll see the Himba people and desert wildlife along the way. This will be a flying safari and we will maximize the time out on safari by flying from location to location. This will enable us to carry an adequate amount of camera baggage, do some aerial photography of scenic locations, and eliminate time-consuming, long drives. This will be a serious instructional safari with a strong focus on teaching in the field.

Safari Highlights
• This private flying safari covers fascinating attractions in Namibia, while enjoying much of the stunning landscapes from the air.
• The safari will be led by John Paul Caponigro.
• We will fly to three amazing destinations in central and northern Namibia: Kolmanskop, The Namib Desert / Sossusvlei, and the incredible Skeleton Coast
• Kolmanskop is a famous ex-diamond mining ghost town which today is fighting a losing battle against the winds and sand dunes that are enveloping it... the photography here is striking and we will make two separate visits to the ghost town to make images. Truly a photographer's dream location.
• The Namib Desert may well be the world's oldest desert. The apricot-colored dunes at Sossusvlei are some of the most beautiful landscapes on earth. Herds of mountain zebra, gemsbok and springbok roam the area.
• The Skeleton Coast is one of our planet's most remote locations. It is wild, desolate, uninhabited and stunningly beautiful. This is a place the will rival anything in Africa for those who enjoy the excitement of wild and remote places.
• In all the areas we visit, you will have the opportunity to spend quality photographic time.
• Personalized instruction with John Paul throughout the safari.
• Safari is limited to 11 participants.

IS THIS SAFARI FOR YOU?
Here are some key points to help you decide:
1. We welcome photographers of ALL levels. This safari will be conducive to learning from one another and include instruction that will suit everyone’s photographic needs. No question is off limits, no inquiry too basic.
2. We are BIG on photographing in the field. We spend most our time and effort on safari activity and making images. We do meet daily to review images and discuss technique, but this is not a “classroom-intensive” trip. This workshop is about shooting. Lots of shooting..
3. Non-photographer or videographer spouses / travel companions will love these safaris. Because of the unique location of this workshop and the comfortable accommodations, this workshop adventure is open to spouses/partners as well as photographers. Even non-photographers will find the locales visited and the wildlife viewing opportunities to be thrilling. The cost for non-photographers is the same as for active participants..



THE ITINERARY

20-21 September 2010; (1 night)
KALAHARI SANDS HOTEL- Windhoek, Namibia

On your arrival at Hosea Kutako International Airport in Windhoek, you will be met by our local representative, who will transfer you by road to the hotel. Dinner will be at the hotel and will be on your own account.

The Kalahari Sands Hotel has a total of 173 rooms and all rooms are air-conditioned, equipped with satellite TV, radio, telephone, shower, electric shaver plug (220 volts AC), hairdryer, mini-bar, butler tray for tea and coffee, email connection and international adaptor. 24-hour room service is available.
The hotel has two restaurants...
Dunes Restaurant is an excellent, yet informal buffet-style restaurant, serving breakfast, lunch and dinner and enhanced with an à la carte menu. The terrace, shaded by an awning, overlooks Independence Avenue.
The hotel also boasts a sophisticated privé-style casino with slot machines, Roulette, Blackjack, and Poker tables.
The group will transfer to Eros Airport the next morning, where we catch our private charter flight south to Lüderitz, a small harbor town along the Atlantic Ocean coastline. This will be a scenic flight via Brukkaros, an extinct volcano.


21-23 September 2010; (2 nights)
NEST HOTEL - Lüderitz, Namibia
On arrival at Lüderitz Airport, our group will be met and transferred to our hotel for lunch and the afternoon will be free to relax and explore the town at our leisure.
The Nest Hotel is situated directly on Lüderitz Bay with its own private beach. All rooms are sea facing. A variety of fresh seafood, including the famous Lüderitz oyster and lobster, is served in the Penguin Restaurant. Outstanding and personalized service is a matter of course at this four star Hotel.
Our reason for visiting this area is to photograph the ghost town of Kolmanskop, which lies a few kilometres inland from Lüderitz. Kolmanskop was a small diamond mining village which developed after the discovery of diamonds in the area in 1908, to provide shelter for workers from the harsh environment of the Namib Desert. Driven by the enormous wealth of the first diamond miners, the village was built like a German town, with facilities like a hospital, ballroom, power station, school, skittle-alley, theater and sport-hall, casino, ice factory and the first x-ray-station in the southern hemisphere
The town declined after World War I as diamond prices crashed and operations moved to Oranjemund. It was abandoned in 1956 but has since been partly restored. The geological forces of the desert mean that tourists can now walk through houses knee-deep in sand. Kolmanskop is popular with photographers for its scenic settings of the desert sands reclaiming this once thriving town. Due to its location within the restricted area (Sperrgebiet) of the Namib desert, a permit is necessary to enter the town.
We have acquired permits for two visits to this photogenic town, one on the morning of the 22nd and again the next morning of the 23rd September.
We will photograph the town for several hours on our first morning and then have a nice lunch followed by an afternoon tour of Lüderitz town. The tour will include some or all of the following, depending on the groups wishes and time: Goerke Haus - Diamantberg - Berg Street with a number of colonial houses - Shark Island - Waterfront and surrounding area - Felsenkirche with its beautiful stained-glass windows. The inside of the old power station is extremely popular with some photographers, whereas others may wish to go to the beach and see flamingos.
Our next morning we will return for a second visit to Kolmanskop, after which we will head to the airport for our private charter flight to Kulala.

23-25 September 2010; (2 nights)
KULALA DESERT LODGE - Namib Rand Nature Reserve and Sossusvlei, Namibia Jump to Kulala Desert Lodge

Our flight from Lüderitz to Kulala will be another scenic flight, allowing us to photograph Spencer Bay en route to Kulala and the Namib Desert.
On arrival, we will be met and transferred to the lodge, where we have lunch and quickly settle in before heading out on our afternoon activity and more photography.
Situated on over 46,000 acres of the private Kulala Wilderness Reserve, bordering the Namib Naukluft Park, Kulala Desert Lodge lies in the heart of the Namib. It offers magnificent views of the famous red dunes of Sossusvlei as well as spectacular mountain scenery and vast open plains. Kulala Desert Lodge comprises 15 thatched and canvas "kulalas" ("to sleep" in Oshiwambo) with en-suite bathrooms and verandas. Each room is built on a wooden platform to catch the cooling breezes and has a deck on the flat rooftop where bedrolls are placed for guests who wish to sleep under the myriad stars that Namibia's clear skies portray.
The main area, with décor inspired by northern Africa, has a lounge, pub, dining area, plunge pool, and wrap-around veranda overlooking the waterhole - a perfect location to view and photograph the desert vista. The overall setting is a true delight to the senses, bringing together the rhythm of Namibia, wholesome meals and intimacy. A waterhole in front of camp attracts a number of local wildlife (such as gemsbok, springbok, ostrich and jackal) and provides a perfect location to view and photograph the desert scenery.
Early morning guided nature drives to the spectacular dunes of Sossusvlei are through a private gate on the Tsauchab River. World-famous Sossusvlei is an enormous clay pan, flanked by the famous red sand dunes that stand out starkly against the blue sky. These dunes have developed over millions of years, the wind continuously transforming the contours of this red sand sea. The 'vlei' itself only fills after rare heavy rainfall when, in a complete turn-around, it becomes a spectacular turquoise lake.
Nature drives and walks are also offered on the private reserve with those incredible views, and to catch a glimpse of the denizens of the desert. Another option, at an extra cost, is early morning ballooning, beginning at first light. The balloon safari offers a truly unique experience to soar silently above the magnificent sand dunes and desert, with a champagne breakfast being served at your landing site.
Sossusvlei itself means 'the gathering place of water' in the local Nama language, and, odd as it may seem, in good years seasonal rains in the foothills of the Naukluft and Tsaris Mountains succeed in reaching the vleis, creating temporary lakes that mirror the sand dunes surrounding them. The vleis have evocative names such as Hidden Vlei and Dead Vlei, while the dunes rise up to 300 metres above the valley floor with razor-sharp edges that stand out against the blue sky. Its huge red dunes and flat valley floors make up the archetypical view of the Namib that is world famous.

25-29 September 2010; (4 nights)
SKELETON COAST CAMP - Skeleton Coast Park, Namibia Jump to Skeleton Coast Camp
Our morning flight from Kulala will be yet another scenic flight, taking us over Swakopmund and up along the Atlantic coast, including passes over shipwrecks along the way
On landing at Khumib Airstrip, we will be met and transferred to the camp.
The camp is built on an island in the dry Khumib riverbed, about 20km inland from the coastline and comprises six Meru-style tented rooms on raised wooden decks with en-suite bathrooms, providing flush toilet, hand basin and shower. The rooms are attractively furnished incorporating locally found natural materials and all rooms have overhead fans and 12v lighting. A central area is made up of an open-plan lounge, bar and dining area with sweeping views of the desert. Weather permitting, evening meals may be served in the open-air 'dining room' under an old, gnarled leadwood tree.
The typical routine at Skeleton Coast is quite different from that of most other safari camps. There is an incredible amount to see and do. Breakfast is enjoyed in camp and guests then head out all day into the Park. A picnic lunch is packed and the safari only returns at sunset. The days are full, rewarding and enriching. This area has everything…from soaring sand dunes that roar, wonderful, vast, pastel-coloured plains, towering canyons and mountains, salt-pans and seal colonies and shipwrecks. Add to that the game viewing! Guests will also visit authentic Himba (the nomadic local people) settlements, just outside the park, for an incredible cultural experience.
Because of the uniqueness and vastness of this area, most activities are done in 4x4 vehicles that are closed to the elements, although all vehicles have pop-top roofs and sliding windows to enjoy the fine weather. However, we will spend a lot of time outside of the vehicles and photographing on foot in the many otherworldly landscapes on offer.
Activities include full-day nature drives or walks with a picnic lunch, returning to camp in the evening. Due to the pristine nature of this area many parts are accessible only on foot, as vehicle tracks can damage the environment. Many specially-adapted plant species such as Lithops and Welwitschia can be visited in this way.
Other excursions comprise visits to the clay castles of the Hoarusib River, Rocky Point, the roaring dunes, lichen fields, Cape fur seal colonies, Himba villages, and birding. Shipwrecks, now fast being devoured by the salty and vigorous coastline, can be viewed on request. This area is not teeming with big game species, but rather offers a cultural journey exploring the smaller desert wonders. Freshwater springs permeate through the barren sands to create rare oases in the desert that sustain pockets of wildlife. Springbok, gemsbok (oryx), the rare desert-adapted elephant, brown hyaena, black-backed jackal, and occasionally even lion and cheetah enter this rugged domain. The famous Cape fur seals are present in their thousands on the beaches, attracting predators as well.
The area has fascinating desert-adapted vegetation such as welwitschia and lithops, the succulent "flowering stones", and the bizarre elephant's foot found in rocky crevices. More than a hundred species of lichen are found on the gravel plains and hot west-facing mountain slopes, which change color as they absorb moisture when the coastal fog presses inland.
29 September 2010; (1 night)
KALAHARI SANDS HOTEL- Windhoek, Namibia
Today we fly from Skeleton Coast Camp back to Windhoek, where we will be met and transferred back to the Kalahari Sands Hotel for a one night stay.
This evening a private group dinner has been arranged at the hotel, including the use of a projector for a farewell slide show of some of our images.

30 September 2010
Today the trip ends and everyone will be transferred to Hosea Kutako International Airport in Windhoek at the appropriate time to catch their homeward or onward flights.
Please also see the note below regarding travel extensions.
NOTE: Customized extensions to this safari, including Cape Town and other destinations may be arranged through Eyes on Africa as desired. Ask us for further information.

COSTS
The cost of this all-inclusive safari is $12,500 per person (but not inclusive of airfare to Windhoek, Namibia). This fee includes all in-country ground and air transportation as well as hotel accommodation (double occupancy) and all meals. Accommodations are two persons to a room.

Please note: This trip is designed for photographers. Though non-photographer spouses are of course welcome and alternate activities will be scheduled if possible, our primary emphasis will be traveling to the best locations for the best light and this will often mean long days of both travel and shooting. You should therefore only consider joining this expedition if you are a passionate photographer willing to put yourself out a bit. This is not a vacation sightseeing trip, but rather is a safari designed for those who'll go the extra mile (or kilometer) to get the images they've been dreaming about.

Due to the limited number of spaces available, if a solo guest is willing to share and we can match with another guest of the same gender, we will do so. If a solo guest is unwilling to share, then a single supplement will be charged (up to, but not exceeding the full sharing cost). As long as a guest is willing to share, no single supplement will be charged, even if no match is available.


INCLUSIONS & EXCLUSIONS

WHAT IS INCLUDED
• Accommodation on a shared basis
• Air charters between all hotels and camps in in the itinerary
• 30 kg (66 lbs) of luggage per person allowance, including all carry-on and camera equipment
• 1 x Professional photographer leading the trip (John Paul Caponigro)
• Private activities at all locations for our group
• Services of the lodge guides & staff
• Relevant park fees
• All meals and drinks while in Namibia (excluding dinner on 20-Sep at Kalahari Sands Hotel)
• Daily laundry (except in Skeleton Coast, where the is a water scarcity)
• Airport transfers to and from all hotels and lodges
• The current Tourism Levies and all relevant Value Added Tax or Government Sales Taxes

WHAT IS NOT INCLUDED
• International airfare and/or other transportation between your home and Windhoek, Namibia
• Visas
• Travel Insurance
• Personal purchases (including curios, spirit liquors, telephone calls etc.)
• Optional gratuities for camp staff and guides
• Optional extra activities (balloon rides, etc.)
• Pre- and post- safari tours
• Meals or accommodation before or after the safari (except as noted in the detailed itinerary)

What Do I Do Next?

Our groups are small, so space is limited. If this exciting trip has your name on it; if you're excited by the thought of becoming a member of this trip, then now is the time to register. Remember, there will be limited space available for this workshop. When they're spoken for, that's it. If you have any questions before registering, send us an e-mail with any inquiries to info@andybiggs.com.

Andy spends a few months each year in Africa, teaching workshops and sharing his enjoyment of the wildlife, landscapes and people of Africa. If you are interested in joining him on one of his trips, you can contact him at info@andybiggs.com, view his workshop schedule on this site, or visit his website at www.andybiggs.com.

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The Everyday Photographer - Get it in Focus!

One of the most important things you do when making an image is getting the focus right.

Powered by Podbean.com

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Thoughts of the Day - 5/13/10 - THURSDAY!!!!! AGH!!!!!!

One of my favorite quotes in literature comes from the work of Douglas Adams.  "It must be a Thursday, I never could get the hang of Thursdays."  This is of course what Arthur Dent remarks to Ford Prefect as Ford is explaining how the Earth is about to be destroyed by a group of overzealous bureaucrats called Vogans in the first of "The Hitchhikers Guide to the Galaxy."  For me though I just realized that the next installment of "The Everyday Photographer" is due out tomorrow and while I have recorded the audio for it I have not placed the intro and exit music on it.  I started it on Tuesday but was sidetracked.  No big rush I will have it done in a short time before soccer tonight but still it's hard to believe tomorrow is Friday.

I'm still suffering 40D withdraws and just about get a fix yesterday by ordring a new 7D but somehow I managed to restrain the urge.  However I have two shoots this weekend and a new camera would have been nice.  (Wistful look at second monitor containing image of a Canon 7D)  The Brothers in the Cross will be at Prosperity Church in Beckley this weekend and I will be on hand to capture some images of them.  So look forward to those on Monday along with Twister Soccer from Saturday.  I also have a church picnic on Sunday too, so it is likely I will have images from that.  Going to be a pixel filled weekend! (Wistful look at second monitor containing image of a Canon 7D)

All I can say is the folks at the repair center better get it in gear or by the time the get me the quote I will be likely to tell them to send it back as is due to the new camera...nah...I just want my 40D back.

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Arthur Meyerson - Seeing Beyond the Ordinary

http://www.ssreg.com/juliadean/classes/classes.asp?courseid=14399&catid=1803

Arthur Meyerson - Seeing Beyond the Ordinary

Most of us use our eyes to establish where we are or where we are going. However, in photography we are interested in “seeing”. Some feel that the only way to make photographs is to have unique subjects or travel to exotic locations. And while there is some truth to that, there is a multitude of possibilities waiting out there for us to recognize their photographic potential and make the ordinary, the extraordinary. This is a workshop for serious amateurs and professionals wishing to take their photographic vision to the next step.

The workshop begins with an intensive review of each participant’s images and a discussion of personal and career goals. In addition to addressing the aesthetics of color photography, Arthur leads group critiques and shows examples of his own work to help illustrate the variety of methods necessary to help expand your ability to perceive and observe. Daily assignments put classroom techniques into practice and take advantage of the stunning light and color of southern California. Participants leave at the end of the weekend with a greater awareness of their strengths and an enhanced sensitivity to light, color and the endless possibilities of subjects to be photographed.

Intended for advanced amateurs and professionals alike. A working knowledge of digital workflow and manual mode on your digital SLR is required. Participants should bring a laptop computer loaded with photo editing/processing software.

3 Session(s)
Fri, Sat, Sun Fri, 7-9pm; Sat & Sun, 10am-6pm, August 20 - August 22

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